I broke up with my partner because his cancer struggle destroyed my mental health; now, I’m running a marathon in his honour

The physics instructor was devastated and deeply worried about Fresen, her ex-partner, battling a brain tumour. She struggled to sleep and eat due to the intense emotional toll, suffered panic attacks, and needed medicine to help her manage. She knew she loved Fresen, but she knew she could no longer keep the relationship going. They later got divorced, but Epstein decided to run a marathon in his honour to collect money for brain tumour research since she is now committed to helping her ex-partner in his battle with the disease.

_{Jelle Fresen / SWNS}

_{Danielle Epstein / SWNS}

Fresen, a Google software engineer, started exhibiting symptoms, including dizziness and vomiting, as the pair was purchasing a home together. Fresen’s condition was initially misdiagnosed as an ear infection, but when it worsened, he requested a private MRI, which found a malignant growth in his brain. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the type of cancer he was diagnosed with is most frequently detected in children, and Epstein and Fresen felt as though their lives had been completely turned upside down.

_{Danielle Epstein / SWNS}

Fresen had nerve damage after the tumour removal procedure, which led to partial facial paralysis on the right side of his face. Additionally, he started having trouble fully closing one eye, and squinting caused him to have double vision. After abandoning their romantic relationship and moving to Thailand to be with her father, Epstein acknowledged that their plans were abruptly dashed.

_{Jelle Fresen / SWNS}

Epstein chose to participate in the London Marathon despite not being a runner to honour Fresen and raise money and awareness for research into brain tumours. Although she acknowledged the considerable physical and psychological difficulties in preparing for a marathon, they were nothing compared to what Fresen had experienced. She was inspired by his grit and declared that she could undoubtedly complete a marathon if he could handle such adversity.

_{Danielle Epstein / SWNS}

Fresen said he had initially questioned Epstein’s capacity to finish a marathon and then expressed appreciation for her commitment and tenacity. He commended her perseverance and self-control and offered his support for her goal. Epstein’s JustGiving campaign aims to raise about $12,500 for brain tumour research.

_{Jelle Fresen / SWNS}

Despite their difficulties and emotional turmoil, Epstein and Fresen now concentrate on helping one another in their post-breakup friendship. Epstein’s choice to run a marathon in Fresen’s memory and raise money for brain tumour research exemplifies her will to succeed in the face of difficulty.

_{Danielle Epstein / SWNS}